Grinding: Teachers and students should compromise

Recently local school teachers, staff, administrators and parents came up with new rules for high school dances. In some cases, such as at Skaneateles High School, dances have even been canceled. At issue is the popular style of dancing called “grinding.” As per both school administration and staff, grinding will not tolerated as it is seen as “inappropriate and vulgar.” Talk to the students and they will tell you that grinding is just a style of dance that is part modern and popular.

Arguments can be made for both sides. On the one hand, you have adults who believe that in order to protect children and maintain a level of decency they must enforce strict codes of conduct at school functions. They believe that “grinding” is indecent and far too explicit for a school function. On the other hand, students are influenced by the media and determine their standards according to what they see and hear.

Historically each generation has pushed the boundaries of what is considered acceptable. I believe that as time progresses, there will always be different circumstances that are frowned upon. Teachers and students must make a compromise that will allow the dances to be continued as scheduled but also appropriate. I believe an open dialogue in which students can express their opinions and be part in the decision making process is an effective start to the solution of the problem. Regardless of each school's decision, I believe that this issue will always remain controversial.